In a notable setback for potential migrants, American edtech firm Duolingo has been unsuccessful in its efforts to secure recognition as an official language test provider for Canada’s immigration applications. Records from lobbying activities reveal that Duolingo sought to have its online English test included among the accepted examinations for the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), a programme aimed at facilitating permanent residency for high-skilled refugees. The failure to gain approval underscores the complexities faced by displaced individuals in accessing necessary language assessments, particularly those from conflict-ridden regions.
Duolingo’s Lobbying Efforts
Between August and December 2025, representatives from Duolingo engaged with officials from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on five occasions. These discussions centred on potential enhancements to the EMPP programme, with a specific focus on the viability of digital language testing options. However, the current regulatory framework at IRCC mandates that applicants complete language tests in person at designated centres, precluding remote assessments.
Duolingo’s attempts were driven by the growing demand for accessible language testing solutions, especially in light of the ongoing challenges posed by international conflicts. However, sources close to the discussions indicated that concerns regarding the integrity of Duolingo’s online testing mechanisms played a significant role in the government’s refusal. Officials expressed apprehension about verifying the identity of test-takers, raising questions about the reliability of remote assessments.
The Implications for Refugees
The restrictions on remote testing have dire consequences for many aspiring immigrants. Hamdan Albuhaisi, a Palestinian resident of Gaza, exemplifies the struggles faced by individuals navigating this bureaucratic landscape. As a UN-registered refugee with a master’s degree in computing systems, Albuhaisi sought to apply for Canadian permanent residency through the EMPP programme. However, his application was thwarted due to the unavailability of approved language tests within Gaza, leading to a judicial review of IRCC’s decision.
The EMPP programme was established in 2018 with the objective of aiding displaced persons designated by the UN Refugee Agency. Yet, following a surge in application backlogs, Ottawa temporarily suspended the programme, causing significant distress for many who depend on it for a chance at a new life.
A Harrowing Reality
Albuhaisi’s predicament highlights the urgent need for a more flexible approach to language testing within Canadian immigration policy. He completed the Duolingo English Test (DET), which he argued demonstrated his proficiency well above the required Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels. Yet, despite his qualifications and experience—having worked with the United Nations for over a decade—he remains unable to fulfil the in-person testing requirement.
The situation worsened with the closure of the British Council’s IELTS testing centres in Gaza following the recent outbreak of conflict. This has left locals with only the online IELTS test option, which is not recognised by IRCC.
Albuhaisi’s lawyer, Kelly O’Connor, has decried IRCC’s decision as “unreasonable,” citing the unique and perilous circumstances faced by many applicants. She advocates for the acceptance of the Duolingo English Test on humanitarian grounds, particularly for those who meet all other criteria for residency but are unable to access traditional testing facilities.
Government Response and Future Prospects
In response to the ongoing challenges, an IRCC spokesperson acknowledged the difficulties some applicants encounter in accessing language tests. Nevertheless, they reaffirmed that proof of language proficiency remains an essential criterion for economic programme applicants.
Duolingo’s Canadian spokesperson, Marlene Olsavsky, confirmed that the company has ceased discussions with IRCC for the time being, leaving uncertain whether lobbying efforts will resume in the future.
Why it Matters
The inability of Duolingo to gain approval as a language test provider reflects deeper issues within Canada’s immigration system, particularly concerning its responsiveness to the needs of vulnerable populations. With conflicts displacing millions, the current framework’s rigid testing requirements are out of step with the realities faced by many prospective immigrants. A more adaptable approach could not only alleviate the burdens on applicants like Albuhaisi but also enhance Canada’s humanitarian commitments. As the nation navigates the complexities of immigration policy, it must consider the human stories behind the statistics and the urgent need for reform in light of global crises.
